The Iowa State Cyclones, entering their NCAA Tournament second-round matchup against the Ole Miss Rebels with a 25-9 record, have exemplified resilience, adaptability, and strategic excellence under the leadership of head coach T.J. Otzelberger. The Cyclones’ season has been characterized by a steadfast commitment to defensive tenacity, positioning them as one of the premier defensive units in college basketball. Their ability to stifle opposing offenses has been a cornerstone of their success, with a defensive scheme that emphasizes pressure, discipline, and tactical versatility. In their first-round victory over Lipscomb, the Cyclones showcased their offensive efficiency, shooting 58.3% from the field and dominating the paint with a 50-20 scoring advantage, reflecting their capacity to execute game plans with precision. A significant challenge for Iowa State is the season-ending injury to point guard Keshon Gilbert, a pivotal figure in their backcourt whose absence necessitates strategic adjustments. In response, the Cyclones have relied on the leadership and versatility of senior guard Jaren Holmes, who has adeptly assumed greater responsibility in orchestrating the offense and maintaining defensive intensity. Holmes’ experience and composure under pressure have been instrumental in navigating the team’s dynamics amidst adversity. Complementing Holmes is forward Tre King, whose presence in the paint has been formidable, contributing significantly to the team’s rebounding and interior defense. King’s ability to alter shots and secure rebounds has been crucial in limiting second-chance opportunities for opponents. The Cyclones’ offensive strategy is characterized by a balanced attack, with multiple players capable of contributing significantly on any given night. This depth has made them a challenging matchup, as opponents cannot focus their defensive efforts on a single player. The team’s proficiency in executing half-court sets, coupled with their ability to capitalize on transition opportunities, has added layers to their offensive repertoire. Defensively, Iowa State’s adaptability is noteworthy; they have effectively employed various schemes, including man-to-man and zone defenses, to disrupt the rhythm of their opponents, holding teams to just 62.1 points per game—a mark that places them among the elite defensive programs in the nation.

This defensive dominance is anchored not just in scheme but in effort and execution, as the Cyclones communicate well, rotate effectively, and consistently force opponents into low-percentage shots. Their ability to defend without fouling and close out on shooters has stymied some of the best offenses in the country this season. Even without Gilbert, Iowa State has demonstrated an ability to adjust on the fly, with freshman Milan Momcilovic emerging as an offensive x-factor thanks to his size, versatility, and shot-making ability from the perimeter. The Cyclones also benefit from a strong bench rotation that brings energy and physicality, particularly in the frontcourt, where players like Hason Ward and Robert Jones contribute to a rebounding corps that outmuscles most opponents on both ends of the floor. Against an athletic and aggressive Ole Miss team, Iowa State’s emphasis will be on controlling tempo, minimizing turnovers, and forcing the Rebels into tough, contested half-court possessions. Coach Otzelberger has instilled a culture of toughness and preparation, and his squad has responded with mature, mistake-free basketball, particularly during their recent strong finish to the Big 12 season and into the opening round of the tournament. They’ll need to replicate that performance against a Rebels squad that surged past North Carolina with a dynamic first half but showed some second-half vulnerability. The Cyclones will look to exploit any defensive lapses, especially with their precision off screens and strong cuts to the rim, which will test the discipline of the Ole Miss perimeter defense. In addition, the Cyclones’ ability to limit second-chance points and win the rebounding battle could be a deciding factor, as Ole Miss thrives when they can create chaos and score off turnovers or offensive boards. Playing in a venue like Fiserv Forum, Iowa State is likely to have a strong contingent of traveling fans, which should provide added energy and a home-court-like boost in key stretches. The loss of Gilbert means the team will lean even more heavily on Holmes’ leadership and the collective experience of the roster, but if they continue to play their brand of fundamentally sound, defense-first basketball and execute in the half court, Iowa State will be well-positioned to advance to the Sweet 16. With a coaching staff that meticulously prepares and a roster that knows how to respond under pressure, the Cyclones remain a dangerous tournament team—one capable of beating anyone when their defense is dictating the flow, and the offense is capitalizing on rhythm and ball movement. The path forward depends on whether they can sustain their defensive intensity and offensive poise across 40 minutes against a surging Ole Miss program. If they do, they’ll be one step closer to a deep tournament run and national recognition for a style of basketball built on grit, discipline, and execution.